First off, I really like the Manassa logo. Mr. Guy did a nice job with all the details. The soldier depicted is William S. Askew, of Newnan, Georgia. Askew enlisted in the First Georgia Volunteer Infantry (Ramsey’s) on 7 May 1861, and he wears the fatigue uniform of Company A, the Newnan Guards. He was captured during General Robert S. Garnett’s retreat from Laurel Hill, (West) Virginia on 13 July 1861, but escaped. His service continued as follows: Discharged for disability at Monterey, VA 21 August 1861. Enlisted in Co. F, 16th Battalion Georgia Cavalry 2 May 1862. Captured at Knoxville, TN 4 December 1863. Sent to Camp Morton, Indiana, where he was appointed 4th Corporal. Transfered from Camp Morton, Indiana to Fort Delaware, Delaware, and paroled there February 1865. Received at Boulware & Cox’s Wharves James River, VA for exchange, 10-12 March 1865. Died in Newnan, GA April 1917. Buried. Oak Hill Cemetery, Newnan, Coweta County, Georgia.

Part of Askew’s Compiled Service Record states that he transferred to Co. F, 13th Regt. Georgia Cavalry on 2 May 1864. This is a bit of a mystery as he was imprisoned at Camp Morton on that date.

Even though Askew did not serve at either battle at Manassas, Guy’s reasoning for using the image is sound. The eyes are indeed haunting, and his early war uniform is appropriate.

I am the artist that was lucky enough to have been chosen to do the logotype and ongoing promotional materials for the greater Manassas/Prince William Sesquicentennial events. I am glad that you like logotype and notice the specific details chosen, such as the (proper) Confederate flag. There are other details in his rifle, hat and his pistol braces, etc., that are there for those so inclined to really look for them, but the overall impression is what was needed, as well as historical accuracy.

A number of styles and icons were reviewed in the development of this mark. In the end, a human being was chosen, not be be melodramatic, but to be authentic and dramatic ENOUGH. This mark commemorates human beings. The boy in the logo, Georgian WIlliam Askew, fought many times in Virginia, and survived the War. His eyes are haunting, not just because they are piercing, but because they set on a face that could be anybody’s son.

I will take also note of your t-shirt ideas! The Manassas Museum will be putting out a few items, in this regard, and your comments help.